There are currently lots of people who are taking that leap of faith and moving from one state to another for various reasons. Don’t you just marvel at those persons who step out on faith and start a new and fresh life in new locations. Sometimes it is necessary to relocate to simply find peace and joy in different ways. Other reasons may include a better job offer, lower crime rate, less traffic and hustle and bustle, a better place to raise children, a more desirable place to live, privacy, etc. Whatever the reason may be, may I suggest we seek the Lord and His perspective above all else.
It appears that not only are more people moving from one state to another, but also moving from their home country to a foreign land. It was amazing to recently have a conversation with a young person whose dream is to move to a foreign country where crime is low and the cost of living is much less than in the United States. It takes courage and fortitude to live out our dreams without hesitancy or reluctance. It is to be noted that Millennials and Generation Z are willing to make a bold move without second thoughts. The young lady I am referring to has made up her mind and seem to have it all together and ready to pack up. It is amazing to see young people, in particular, take risks and not confine themselves to one location. Some of us seniors may remember when our horizon did not extend beyond a few miles.
May I again suggest that before we make such a move, we consult and seek the Lord through prayer, fasting, meditation and discernment.
It is a blessing for some to become snowbirds. Snowbirds are people who migrate from the colder parts of North America to warmer locales during the winter months. Just imagine having the luxury of being on the beach during the winter when the temperatures are above 80 degrees. There are those also who have moved permanently to states where the climate is mild throughout the year.
It is impressive when persons can move out of their homes, lock, stock and barrel and start anew for whatever reasons. Sometimes it may be to just get away from your present environment that has caused you nothing but grief. Relocating can in many ways rejuvenate and give new perspectives on life. This is not a message to encourage everyone to start relocating, rather to listen to God’s voice in doing so. I simply admire and respect others for being adventurous.
Recently some friends, a retired couple, returned to the United States after spending approximately ten months abroad doing whatever they freely wished to do. Now that they are retired, they have sold their home and plan to spend several months each year in other countries. It is worth giving God praises for his goodness in matters such as this. Now that is admirable!
Downsizing and age are also reasons that cause people to relocate. The inability to maintain a home at an elderly age becomes more challenging and causes persons to move into some form of senior living facilities. There may come a day that all of we elderly folk may dread, but it may be what is best for our quality of living.
With all of the above being said, I guess we can all agree that we are a transient people.
“I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do: I will not forsake them.” (Isaiah 42:16). I gather from this scripture that God is always preparing us for new seasons that He selects for us. He gives us the confidence to carry out that purpose and we will prosper in it if it is sent by God.
In closing, if you decide to relocate, just know that God will be with you. For God promises to work all things together for good, for those who love him and are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Just my thoughts!
Robert Earl Slade, Pastor
